President’s Letter
Category: President's Page
Dear UB Alumni and Friends:
This fall, more than 1,800 students began their educational careers at the University of Baltimore. They came to UB with determination and vision. They have clear objectives for what they hope to achieve. They undoubtedly will be challenged by their time here, just as they will enrich the campus community with their energy, curiosity and talent.
As I begin my first year as president, I find I have a lot in common with these students. Given my return to Baltimore and my arrival at UB in July, this is a time of discovery and rediscovery for me. More than once, I’ve said that I feel a bit like Rip Van Winkle—everything looks at once brand new and vaguely familiar. The city I was fortunate to serve has made great progress, and it’s clear that the University of Baltimore has played a major role in making that happen. At the same time, some things don’t change, especially the critical role that education plays in creating a vibrant and just society. I look forward to working with all of you to maintain and enhance the impact UB has on the lives of its students and on the city whose name it proudly shares.
Much as our students do, I have a lot to learn, and that education is well underway. I’ve encountered the infectious enthusiasm and loyalty of our alumni at an O’s game this summer. (Yes, it was a great year; now let’s go, Ravens!) I’m getting to know our students, whether an 18-year-old from my alma mater, Baltimore City College; a community college graduate seeking to advance her career; or one of the 200 law students who participate in our extensive clinical and externship programs every year. I’ve encountered the commitment that UB staff has to our students and to the institution. And I continue to be impressed by the accomplishments of our faculty—as teachers, researchers and leading practitioners in their fields.
During the coming years, I’ll get to witness and celebrate the graduation of hundreds of students who started at UB with me this year. For some, the path to graduation may take some unexpected turns. For others, goals may change because of unforeseen opportunities or unanticipated challenges. New discoveries may alter visions of success.
In this, I hope to continue having a lot in common with our students, especially the ability to articulate a vision of a successful future yet remain open to possibilities we can’t even imagine today.
Thank you for joining our students and me in that commitment and for supporting us in that journey.
Kurt L. Schmoke
President, University of Baltimore